Viola sororia

Also known as Common Meadow Violet, Woolly Blue Violet, Hooded Violet, Wood Violet

Common blue violets carpet deciduous woodland floors, meadows, and suburban lawns across eastern North America each spring. Beyond their conspicuous purple blossoms, these low-growing perennials produce inconspicuous, self-pollinating flowers hidden near soil level later in the summer. Their heart-shaped leaves serve as a critical spring host plant for fritillary butterfly caterpillars.